Just the McJob: McDonald's to create 2,500 new burger jobs this year

The fast food giant confirmed it was taking on extra staff because existing stores are busier and it is opening new restaurants

Lovin' it: Business Secretary Vince Cable at a McDonald's restaurant in Camden

The Government today claimed 2,500 new jobs at McDonald’s were proof that its policies were working.

The fast food giant confirmed it was taking on extra staff because existing stores are busier and it is opening new restaurants.

The increase means the US firm now employs 93,500 people in the UK.

The move follows 3,500 new jobs that McDonald's created last year, of which 70% were taken by young people under the age of 21.

McDonald's has added more than 20,000 people to its workforce during the last five years.

However, many of the jobs in McDonald’s - and other fast food firms which are expanding - are part-time and relatively low paid.

Business Secretary Vince Cable, who found time to visit a McDonald’s in Camden, north London, to champion the announcement, said: “It is the Government’s job to create an environment where jobs are being created.

“McDonald’s is one option and it is a particularly good option for young people who would otherwise find themselves out of work altogether.

"McDonald's is also to be applauded for helping adult employees get qualifications in maths and English.

"Poor literacy and numeracy skills can hold people back in the workplace, which is why the Government has doubled the funding for these core subjects."